Derek Day, Eastern Kentucky, Special Teams Coordinator
Full video available on Glazier Drive: Double Team Drill Work: Goals/Personnel, Alignment, & Technique on Drop
This article was originally posted on the Glazier Coaching Blog.
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KICKOFF RETURN DOUBLE TEAM TECHNIQUE
This coaching video focuses on the double team blocking scheme for kickoff returns, specifically involving the playside guard and playside tackle. The system uses a simplified “playside and backside” concept to teach one set of skills rather than multiple techniques.
TARGET PERSONNEL FOR DOUBLE TEAM
The ideal players for this role are linebackers and running backs who possess three key qualities: speed, physicality, and relentlessness. This position is particularly effective for developing young players, as it allows true freshmen to gain confidence while working with a partner rather than handling assignments alone. The coach emphasizes a “Bash Brothers” mentality where two players work together to neutralize coverage defenders.
FORMATION AND ALIGNMENT
The kickoff return operates like a counter play with double teams and pulling blockers. The playside guard drops approximately 5 yards while the playside tackle drops about 10 yards. They then come together and work forward as a unit. The system allows flexibility to double team any coverage player from positions 3, 4, or 5 on the playside depending on where the primary threat appears.
TECHNIQUE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The guard serves as the “postman” – maintaining square positioning with eyes locked on the coverage defender. The tackle acts as the “cleanup man” – coming to the guard’s hip, getting square, and handling any movement by the defender. Two “go” calls coordinate their movement: the first gets them into proper spacing, the second initiates forward movement to make contact.
PRACTICE METHODOLOGY
Training progresses through multiple phases:
- Setup versus air with proper spacing and timing
- Adding coverage defenders at controlled speed
- Giving defenders three-way options (split the double team, work playside, or work backside)
- Eventually incorporating full-speed, physical repetitions during training camp
GAME APPLICATION AND RESULTS
Game footage demonstrates the technique’s effectiveness, showing how the double team creates running lanes for returners. The coach stresses that players must stay committed to their double team assignment rather than abandoning it to make other blocks. When executed properly, this creates a physical, relentless presence that forces coverage teams to account for the double team on every kickoff, ultimately setting up explosive return opportunities.
The key coaching point throughout is simple: tell the two players their only job is to make the coverage defender’s life miserable, and the returns will follow.